Colleen M. Major

Colleen M. (Willette) Major, 97, peacefully left her family on Sunday, March 5, 2023 at her home in Ellensburg. 

Colleen was born on January 10, 1926 in Los Angeles, California. Her parents were James & Cecilia (Mayta) Willette. She grew up in Cle Elum and the upper county became a cherished part of Colleen’s life - always connecting her to her roots.  She was the oldest of five children - Jim, Tom, Lucille, and Jack soon followed. 

Colleen was married to her loving husband, Donald L. Major, and in June of this year they would have celebrated 64 years of marriage.  She worked as a bookkeeper for over 30 years and loved every minute of it. Don and Colleen loved to travel together during their retirement years, visiting places like Maui, New Zealand and Australia. She loved the ocean, whale watching, quails, and hummingbirds. 

Colleen was preceded in death by her son, Steve Major; brothers Jim and Jack; her sister Lucille and her parents James and Cecilia Willette.

Colleen is survived by her husband, Don Major; her son by a previous marriage, David Koepnick; Brad Major and wife Peggy; grandchildren Katrina, Jason, Jaime, and Matthew; and great-grandchildren Jade, Elijah, Moana, and Luke.  She is also survived by her brother Tom Willette and wife Norma; sister-in-law Donna Willette, as well as many nieces and nephews.

Memorial contributions in Colleen’s honor are suggested to KVH Hospice, 1506 Radio Road or Hearts & Hands of Kittitas County (formerly Hospice Friends), 302 E. Second Avenue, both in Ellensburg. The family wishes to express their appreciation to Ashlynn, Colleen’s longtime caregiver, for all of her special care and support.

Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 1:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 14, 2023 at St. John the Baptist Catholic Church in Cle Elum with interment to follow at Laurel Hill Memorial Park.  Viewing for family and friends will be Monday, March 13 from 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m at Johnston & Williams in Ellensburg.

Johnston & Williams Funeral Home of Ellensburg has been entrusted with caring for Mrs. Major and her family. Online condolences may be left at www.johnston-williams.com